The State of Security in Somerset West
If you’ve lived in Somerset West long enough, you’ll know that the topic of security comes up as easily as the south-easter. It appears in school-gate chats, neighbourhood WhatsApp groups, and around dinner tables across town. Because when you care about a place as much as we care about ours, safety becomes personal.
To get a clearer picture of the state of security in Somerset West, we spoke with Craig Austen from Secure Rite and Fernando Vermeulen from Vetus Schola – two partners of the Village Collective who work daily to protect our community and bring 45 years of collective experience to the table.
What We’re Seeing on the Ground
Burglaries, gate and garage entries, vehicle break-ins, and remote jamming are common patterns. Fernando notes that “unsecured gates, garages, and garden sheds remain some of the easiest entry points for criminals,” while Craig highlights everyday habits that leave residents vulnerable, like leaving valuables visible in cars, using ATMs after dark, or being distracted by phones in busy areas.
Other concerns include homeless encampments around the perimeter of the CBD, illegal car guards, and increased activity from organised groups targeting properties.
Where to from here?
The future of safety in Somerset West is becoming smarter and more coordinated.
Fernando and his team are expanding AI-driven camera networks and license plate recognition systems, providing real-time alerts across neighbourhoods. “It’s technology that never sleeps,” he says – and its effectiveness grows with every resident who connects to the network, adding a new pair of eyes on the ground.
Craig and SecureRite are also deeply involved in strengthening security in the Central Business District through the new City Improvement District (CID) model: increasing visible patrols, improving lighting, monitoring high-traffic zones, and ensuring rapid response to infrastructure and environmental issues that affect safety.
What you can do
So that’s what the professionals are doing, but what about the residents? A safer Somerset West depends on small, consistent actions from all of us. Here’s what both experts recommend:
1. Improve visibility at home
Upgrade from motion-sensor lights to constant perimeter lighting, and consider infrared-enabled CCTV to remove blind spots.
2. Secure the basics
Lock gates, garages and sheds – most break-ins still happen because something was left open.
3. Upgrade how you answer your door
Craig recommends installing video intercoms – allowing you to verify and speak with visitors remotely, without ever opening the gate.
4. Stay alert in public
Don’t leave valuables visible in your car, avoid ATMs after dark, and stay off your phone when moving through busy areas.
5. Maintain our shared spaces
Craig reminds us, “Crime loves grime.” Report missing drain covers, broken street signs, potholes, and damaged pavements. Secure Rite will lodge C3 reports with the City and track progress.
6. Get connected and involved
Join your local Neighbourhood Watch or stay connected to your street WhatsApp group.
8. Report unusual activity, even if it feels small
A strange car, someone testing a gate, unusual movement – Vetus Schola and Secure Rite are just one call away, and early reporting prevents escalation.
9. Get to know your neighbours
Nothing beats human connection. The stronger the street, the safer the street.
Somerset West is evolving, but so are the systems and partnerships working to keep it secure. With better technology, stronger collaboration, and active community involvement, we’re building a town where safety is proactive, shared and future-facing – together.